The Fraxel laser is a relatively new laser. It is called an Erbium fractional resurfacing laser with a wavelength of 1550nm (also known as FRAXEL Restore) This laser is quite unique in that it makes little channels/perforations down into the collagen layer of the skin. This has the effect of stimulating new collagen production in the dermis which is called collagen neogenesis. This process takes between three and six months to be complete.

The beauty of this treatment is that the perforations are so tiny that the surface of the skin heals very quickly, usually within two to four days unlike the more invasive ablative lasers.

It is an excellent laser for producing results with less healing time and misery than other laser systems which have been available in the past. Ablative lasers give a marginally better improvement for serious wrinkles but taking everything into account, the FRAXEL laser really is a more appropriate treatment for most patients. It can be used on people with darker skins as well.

As well as improving the texture of the skin, the FRAXEL laser will also fade away what we call dyschromia. This is the motley brown and sallow skin which occurs over the years with our Australian climate.

The FRAXEL laser is also suitable for the treatment of acne scars and can be used in isolation or in conjunction with other treatment modalities. The main issue with the treatment of acne scars is that patients have realistic expectations.